Panama university council to choose interim rector amid crisis

The Autonomous University of Chiriquí (Unachi) in Panama faces a critical juncture as its General University Council convenes today to formally accept Rector Etelvina Medianero de Bonagas' second resignation. The council must also decide who will assume the interim rectorship, a process unfolding amidst a severe internal crisis and widespread criticism.

The situation intensified after the council initially urged Medianero to remain in her post despite her resignation, drawing sharp rebukes from sectors including the Ministry of Education and President José Raúl Mulino. This move has fueled concerns about the university's governance and the impartiality of its decision-making bodies.

Absel Navarro, a professor at Unachi's Faculty of Business Administration, explained that while university statutes outline a succession mechanism, the current circumstances, marked by multiple resignations of university authorities, have complicated the process. The proposed interim rector is Pedro González, the Vice Rector for Postgraduate Research, but the final decision rests with the General University Council.

Navarro and others within the university community express apprehension that individuals closely associated with the former rector might be appointed interim leaders, potentially influencing upcoming administrative and electoral processes. The organization of new elections for university authorities is a key concern, especially given the ongoing scrutiny of the current governing structure. The composition of the General University Council itself is also under fire, with accusations that its members were chosen in past processes influenced by incumbent authorities, raising doubts about its ability to act impartially.